"The majority of staff would be even worse off under this change," he said.

"It is inconceivable that the government can claim to have come up with this idea 'having listened to staff'.

"This announcement of an even steeper hike will intensify the anger [doctors] are already feeling."

The "divisive and provocative" enhanced offer still means two thirds of nurses will face hikes in pension contributions, according to Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive and General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing.

"Having to pay an average of an extra £30 a month on top of this is a deeply unwelcome surprise Christmas present from the Government," he said.